There are several types of mosquito repellents: repellent for the skin, repellent to be applied to clothing, and airborne repellent. Time and time again, EPA-approved repellents containing N-diethyl-meta-toluamide (DEET) are considered to be the gold standard for keeping mosquitoes away. Most formulas contain either DEET or picaridin, a relatively newer repellent.
Picaridin vs. DEET for Mosquitoes
Picaridin and DEET are two chemicals frequently found in mosquito repellent products. So which is the better option to keep mosquitoes away? Here are the pros and cons of both effective mosquito repellents:
- DEET has been used for decades and was developed by the U.S. Army in the ‘40s. Although it has been under scrutiny in the past, DEET has been approved by the EPA after reports that it does not pose a health concern. Concentrations of DEET between 10 and 30% have proven to provide up to 12 hours of protection against mosquitoes. It is important to note that DEET can damage plastic and synthetic gear.
- Picaridin is effective against many types of insects, including ticks and flies. Picaridin has minimal odor, no effect on plastics, and is a common chemical found in today’s repellents. It has comparable protection against mosquitoes as DEET, but is considered to be the most effective for flies.
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Are Mosquito Repellents Safe?
When shopping for a mosquito repellent, always look for a product that has been approved by the EPA – they’re considered safe. Most store-bought repellents contain 10-30% DEET or up to 20% picaridin. When using a mosquito repellent, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the label. Talk with your pediatrician about the use of mosquito repellents on children. When applied as directed, mosquito repellents are completely safe for you and your family.
How to Use Mosquito Repellent
No matter what type of mosquito repellent you use, it is crucial to follow the instructions on the label. Some repellents will require reapplication after a period of time to ensure continued effectiveness. It is recommended that you do skin patch tests to ensure you have no reaction to your chosen repellent.
When in doubt, always speak with a medical professional about the use of mosquito repellents. And reach out to your local mosquito exterminators at East End Tick & Mosquito Control® to tackle any infestation.